NHLBI is considering several proposals for large randomized controlled trials (RCT) assessing the impact of cardiovascular imaging on health outcomes. The ACC is sending a letter detailing our strong support for such a trial. A large RCT would address one of the major problems in CV care today: the lack of robust outcomes evidence to guide optimal use of new diagnostic imaging technology.

In our letter, we recommend to NHLBI that, “A successful trial will need to take an unbiased approach, emphasize real world effectiveness and compare the full spectrum of usual care with new technology across a variety of clinical practice settings.” We don’t offer specific support for any of the proposals, but it is our hope that NHLBI will fund a trial and that in the future, we will be able to help disseminate the much-needed data to our members.